First 24 hours in La Paz, Bolivia

The international airport is located 13km southwest of the city high up on the altiplano, and taxis usually cost 60-70 Bolivianos to reach the centro (around £6). The journey can take anything from 25-60 minutes depending on traffic. Be sure to take an official radio taxi, and have your camera ready for the panoramic views of the sprawling city as you descend into the mountain basin.

Minibuses depart regularly throughout the day and evening up until 9pm, offering a cheap – albeit often claustrophobic – alternative (around 5 Bolivianos).

Population: 877,000 (2.3million including the whole metropolitan area; La Paz, El Alto and Viacha)
Language: Spanish, although Aymara and Quechua can still be heard on the altiplano and in El Alto.
Timezone: GMT-4 (No daylight saving time; in summer BST-5)
International dialing code: +591
Visas: Not required by UK nationals
Currency: Boliviano (BOB/.), currently BOB/.10 to the UK £
Best viewpoint: Mirador Killi Killi offers fantastic 360-degree views of the city, including Mount Illimani’s snow-capped peaks
Health issues: As one of the highest cities in the world, La Paz can cause altitude problems for some tourists; take it easy for the first day or two, drink plenty of water and maybe try South America’s favourite remedy – mate de coca (coca-leaf tea).
Recommended guidebooks:Bolivia (Lonely Planet, 2013)
Climate: Summer is also the wet season (December-March); days are typically warmer despite some unpredictable rain showers. Temperatures drop in the dry and sunny winter (June-August) but the high altitude makes for some chilly nights, no matter the season.

Top end: Camino Real Suites (Calacoto Av. Ballivián #369) is located in the affluent Zona Sur, and the lower elevation here is ideal for adjusting to the city’s altitude – the hotel even offers complimentary oxygen. An indoor pool, gym and an excellent restaurant combine with modern and spacious rooms in a secure residential area. Doubles from US$117.

Mid-range: With a warm ambience, impeccable service and a fine restaurant serving up both international and local fare, Hotel Rosario (Av. Illampu) offers rooms adorned with Quechuan and Aymaran features, centred around a charming courtyard. The colonial building occupies an enviable location in the heart of the city’s centro, within walking distance of the notorious Mercado de las Brujas. Doubles from US$79.

Budget: Just two blocks from the bars and cafés of the trendy Sopocachi zone, the Hotel Rendezvous (461 Pasaje Sgt. Carranza) offers clean and comfortable en-suite rooms with access to a shared kitchen and garden. Fantastic views of Mount Illimani. Doubles from US$35.